12/02/2026
Islamic World Academy of Sciences (IAS) Charts a Bold Future at the 7th OIC-COMSTECH Steering Committee Meeting
Islamabad, Pakistan | February 11-12, 2026 – The Islamic World Academy of Sciences (IAS) played a pivotal role in the 7th Meeting of the Steering Committee on the Implementation of OIC STI Agenda 2026, held at the COMSTECH Secretariat. Represented by its leadership, including President Prof. Adnan Badran and Vice President Prof. Zabta K. Shinwari, the Academy's contributions were widely appreciated as a cornerstone for the next phase of scientific cooperation in the Islamic world.
A Visionary Presentation: Empowering the Ummah
During Session II of the meeting, IAS delivered a comprehensive presentation titled "OIC STI Agenda 2026: Empowering the Islamic World Through Science, Technology, and Innovation". The Academy reaffirmed its mission to provide a dynamic institutional setup that utilizes science and technology for the general development of OIC member states.
Key highlights of the IAS contribution included:
• A Scientific Voice: IAS underscored its role as a legitimate, scientifically-based voice for the cause of STI on behalf of scientists across the Islamic World.
• Strategic Recommendations: The Academy proposed five critical pillars for the upcoming 7th Steering Committee deliberations:
1. Post-2026 Planning: Finalizing a new long-term Strategic Framework for 2026–2035 with phased roadmaps.
2. Sustainable Funding: Urging the operationalization of a dedicated OIC joint research innovation fund.
3. Accountability: Launching a robust Monitoring and Evaluation (M&E) framework, including an Annual STI Report to be produced by IAS.
4. Digital Frontier: Accelerating investment in AI, quantum computing, and "Big Science" programs like space science and genomics.
5. Mobility: Launching intra-OIC mobility programs for researchers to facilitate short-term fellowships and combat brain drain.
Driving High-Impact Initiatives
The Academy’s proactive stance was further evidenced by its development of "bankable" proposals for Islamic Development Bank (IsDB) funding. These include establishing Regional Centers of Excellence for Climate Change Adaptation, focusing on water security, sustainable agriculture, and renewable energy.
Engaging the Next Generation
A standout feature of the IAS strategy was its commitment to young scientists. The Academy announced a new initiative to nominate younger candidates within its framework to bridge the generational gap and create homegrown solutions through interdisciplinary dialogue. This aligns with its recent World Science Day commitment to encourage the next generation to explore STEM fields.
Appreciation and Outlook
The Steering Committee, moderated by senior COMSTECH officials, noted the Academy's vital role in review and finalization of decisions. The IAS’s emphasis on political independence, equity, and diversity in executing its tasks was lauded as essential for the success of the OIC STI Agenda 2026 and the proposed 2035 framework.
As the meeting concluded, IAS stood out as a primary partner in the implementation of joint initiatives, ensuring that the Islamic world remains at the forefront of global scientific discovery.
